Sports Round-Up by Paul Beitler

Tigers, Raiders each land 2 on ACAC volleyball team
Bluffton junior Kara Fiechter and Southern Wells junior Julia Bartlett were named to the Allen County Athletic Conference all-conference volleyball first team.
In addition, Bluffton senior Carlie Crosbie and Southern Wells junior Chelsea Adams were second team selections.
Other first team selections were Alexis Meeks, Jill Peck and Jenae Bennington of Leo, Amy Potter and Tricia Sieger of Woodlan, Chelsea Selking and Hali Wendel of Adams Central, Abby Saalfrank and Allyssa Johnson of Heritage, and Kourtney Hahn of Garrett.
Other second team selections were Keanna Gary and Kendyl Liechty of Leo, Serena Fuelling and Grace Keller of Woodlan, Michelle Ripley and Alyssa Keller of
Adams Central, Sarah Knefelkamp of Heritage, Megan Getts of Garrett, and Karen Bollenbacher and Taylor Farlow of South Adams.

Gordon receives another honor
Norwell senior Katherine Gordon has received another postseason honor, being named to the Indiana Association of Track and Cross Country Coaches (IATCCC) All-State Academic first team.
Gordon has participated on the Norwell cross country team for the last three seasons. She has made steady improvement with each competive season, finishing her senior season with a personal best of 23:29 for 5,000 meters.

Norwell soccer awards presented
The Norwell boys’ soccer team recently held its postseason awards ceremony and presented the following varsity awards: Offensive MVP - Damon Topp; Defensive MVP - Dan DeArmond; Team MVP - Brandon Johnson; Most Improved - Kale DeVoe; Mental Attitude Award - Rob Gresley; Coaches Award - Luke Batdorff.
Topp led the team with three goals and three assists. Josh VanMeter had three goals and one assist. Johnson had two goals and two assists.
The following junior varsity awards were presented: Most Improved - Zack Aschliman; Team MVP - Jacob Meyer.

Knight declines invitation
BLOOMINGTON, Ind. (AP) — Former Indiana coach Bob Knight will not attend next week’s induction into the athletic department’s hall of fame.
Athletic director Fred Glass said that Knight contacted him directly to decline the invitation. Glass said Knight was concerned that the interest in him would be a distraction from the other six inductees.

High School Sports Calendar

Friday, Oct. 30
FOOTBALL: Class A Sectional Semifinals, Fremont at Southern Wells, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 31
VOLLEYBALL: Class 2A Regional at Bluffton, Madison-Grant vs. Southwood, 11 a.m.; FW Bishop Luers vs. Delphi, following first match; championship, 7 p.m.

DNR presents awards at Mid-America Trails and Greenways Conference

Indiana DNR Release:



The Indiana DNR presented its annual trails group and project awards to the Hoosier Mountain Bike Association and the Nickel Plate Trail project, respectively, earlier this week at the Mid-America Trails and Greenways Conference in Kalamazoo, Mich.

Dale Brier of the DNR Division of Outdoor Recreation, said that the HMBA has done "amazing" things when it comes to making Indiana a leader in mountain bike trails, more than earning the state's Trail Organization of the Year award.

"The amount of trail they constructed in just five short years would be enough to award them with this honor, but they’ve done so much more, he said. "They’ve helped change the way Hoosiers think and react to mountain biking."

According to Brier, in 2005, the Indiana DNR had one mountain bike trail that was an experiment that had been on the ground for 10 years without moving forward. HMBA, after working with DNR to change property rules, has assisted in building trails in five state parks, as well as in numerous other Indiana locations.

"Where once public land managers viewed mountain bikes as more trouble than they are worth, now they welcome HMBA’s assistance to build trails," Brier said. "While HMBA has great trail builders, they also have a great group of volunteers who make HMBA a well-rounded organization."

HMBA-run events include the Brown County Breakdown, the Midwest women's clinic, and kids and racer clinics. The HMBA includes advocates who attend public meetings across the state, and members who do the behind-the-scenes tasks to keep the 501 (c) (3) organization running and managing $400,000 worth of federal and state grants.

The state's Project of the Year award went to the Nickel Plate Trail, a 40-plus mile rail/trail corridor running from Cassville in Howard County to Rochester in Fulton County. The corridor was purchased from the Norfolk and Southern Railroad via the Federal Railbanking program for the purpose of developing a trail for hiking, bicycling, and other non-motorized recreational uses.

"With 12.8 miles of the trail currently paved and 20 additional miles currently being developed, the Nickel Plate Trail is ideal for walking, hiking, running, bicycling, skating, or even cross-country skiing," Brier said. "Overall it is comfortably wide, smooth, and maintains an almost unnoticeable grade.

The speed and the relatively low cost at which the trail has been built separated the Nickel Plate from other trails under consideration.

"To put nearly 13 miles of paved trail on the ground, the group has barely spent over a million dollars, and that even includes two bridges," he said. "While many other similar trails run closer to $1 million per mile, doing 13 miles for that amount seems impossible. The volunteer base is amazing; they even have people with heavy construction equipment.

"No other project comes close to doing it better than the Nickel Plate Trail."

For more on the conference at which the awards were presented, see
http://www.michigantrails.org/trails-conference/.

Small game hunting seasons open Nov. 6

Indiana DNR Release:

Statewide small game seasons, a big deal to the many Hoosier hunters who enjoy days afield chasing rabbit, pheasant and quail, open on Nov. 6.

The statewide cottontail rabbit season is from Nov. 6 to Feb 15, 2010. At Atterbury, Blue Grass, Chinook, Crosley, Fairbanks Landing, Glendale, Hillenbrand, Hovey Lake, Jasper-Pulaski, Kankakee, Kingsbury, LaSalle, Minnehaha, Sugar Ridge, Splinter Ridge, Pigeon River, Tri-County, Wilbur Wright, Willow Slough, and Winamac fish and wildlife areas and Brookville, Hardy, Mississinewa, Monroe, Patoka, Roush and Salamonie lakes, the season opened Oct. 1 and closes Jan. 31, 2010. The statewide limit on rabbit is five per day. Possession limit is 10.

“Areas of the state that had significant flooding this past spring may see a decline in the local cottontail population, but most of the state should see improving numbers. Cottontail numbers should be as good or better than last year’s harvest of 196,633 rabbits,” said Budd Veverka, DNR farmland game research biologist.

Pheasant season takes place Nov. 6 to Dec. 20. The bag limit is two and the possession limit is four. Only male pheasants (cock) may be shot. Males are bright in color, while females are varying shades of light brown.

“Pheasant numbers remain low, but stable. I expect a similar harvest to that of last year’s 6,300 wild pheasants,” Veverka said.

Quail season is divided into two regions. North of Indiana 26, the season runs Nov. 6 to Dec. 20, and the limit is five per day. South of Indiana 26, it runs Nov. 6 to Jan. 15, 2010, and the limit is eight per day.

“Quail numbers remain low and continue to decline statewide," Veverka said. "Southwest Indiana, typically the best region for quail, has seen a significant decline in the quail population this year, according to both spring whistle counts and fall covey counts. I expect the harvest to be significantly lower this year than the 20,500 quail harvested in 2008.”

Small-game hunters must abide by hunter orange requirements when in the field. All small-game hunters must possess a valid hunting license. Pheasant and quail hunters must also possess a game bird habitat stamp.

Drivers: Fall's here, beware of deer

Indiana DNR Release:

As daylight diminishes, a driver's chance of hitting a deer increases, so all motorists need to adjust their habits and level of awareness accordingly.

Nearly 50 percent of all accidents involving white-tailed deer occur between October and December, according to Chad Stewart, deer research biologist at the DNR. Drivers don't suddenly become less competent during this time, but rather deer become more active because their breeding season is approaching. More activity means deer are more likely to be on the roads—or ready to dart into them when you least expect it.

This increase in activity increases the likelihood of a collision with a vehicle. Factors such as deer density, vehicle density, surrounding habitat, speed limits, and time of day are other contributors to the frequency of such accidents.

"With the number of deer and the number of vehicles out there, deer-vehicle accidents will happen," Stewart said. "The best we can do is to take measures to keep them to a minimum."

The best method to reduce your risk of hitting a deer—or having a deer hit you—is to practice defensive driving. Knowing the following information will help reduce your chances of becoming a deer-vehicle collision statistic:

- Fall is most common season to strike a deer.
- Deer are most active between sunset and sunrise.
- Deer often travel in groups, so if you see one, another is likely nearby.
- Drive especially carefully in areas where you have seen deer before.
- Use high beams when there is no opposing traffic; scan for deer's illuminated eyes or dark silhouettes along the side of the road.
- If you see a deer, slow your speed drastically, even if it is far away.
- Exercise extreme caution along woodlot edges, at hills, or blind turns.
- Never swerve to avoid a deer; most serious crashes occur when drivers try to miss a deer but hit something else.
- Drivers should pay attention to traffic signs warning of deer crossings they may be tempted to ignore, and may want to steer clear of gimmicks.

"Deer crossing signs have proven effective, but motorists tend to get acclimated to such signs, and their efficiency can be reduced over time," Stewart said. "Fancy whistles or reflectors can be placed on your car to scare deer away, but truth be told, they will only keep you from hitting hobgoblins."

Stewart said that even when practicing safe driving, sometimes hitting a deer is inevitable. Caution is also the best approach after the fact.

"If you hit a deer, remain calm," he said. "Do not approach the deer unless you are sure it has expired. Despite their gentle nature, their hooves are sharp and powerful, and can be extremely dangerous."

Stewart said that, like cars and people, deer can be found anywhere, so drivers should be on the lookout, even in metropolitan areas or densely populated suburbs.

"Whether you're driving through the Hoosier National Forest, your developed neighborhood, or within the limits of our major cities, keep your eye out," he said. "Though a deer-vehicle accident can occur at any time of the day during any season, your chances of striking a deer are greatest at low light conditions between October and December. "Take additional caution during these times, lower your speed, and be alert."

For state statistics from last year regarding deer/vehicle accidents, please see The 2008 Crash Fact Book, map 7, page 138 at this link:
http://www.in.gov/cji/files/FactBook_2008.pdf

High School Sports Calendar

Friday, Oct. 23
FOOTBALL: Class A Sectional 35, South Adams at Southern Wells, 7 p.m.; Class 2A Sectional 27, Bluffton at Eastern (Greentown), 7 p.m.; Class 3A Sectional 19, Norwell at FW Harding, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 24
CROSS COUNTRY: Semi-State at IPFW course, Norwell at boys’ race, 1 p.m.; girls’ race, 1:45 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Class A Sectional 54 at Daleville, Southern Wells vs. Cowan, 12:30 p.m., championship match, 5 p.m.; Class 2A Sectional 38 at South Adams, Bluffton vs. FW Bishop Luers, 12:30 p.m., championship at 4 p.m.; Class 3A Sectional 22 at Maconaquah, Norwell vs. Bellmont, 11 a.m., championship match, 7 p.m.

DNR welcomes 24 new conservation officers

Indiana DNR Release:

INDIANAPOLIS – Two dozen new conservation officers officially joined the Indiana DNR Division of Law Enforcement during graduation ceremonies Friday at the State Capitol.

Indiana Attorney General Greg Zoeller administered the oath of office to the recruits, who will fill positions in various locations around the state.

“It takes a special individual who is willing to make great personal sacrifice to even get to this point,” DNR director Robert E. Carter Jr. said. “These young men are just beginning their careers with DNR, but we already are proud of them and look forward to working with them in the years to come.”

The new officers, their hometowns, and assignment locations (by county in parentheses) are: Jonathon A. Boyd, Hobart (St. Joseph County); Levi P. Clark, Birdseye (Tipton); Shane R. Cooper, Vincennes (Parke); Billy J. Doss, Cicero (Adams); Caleb A. Gluff, Mooresville (Elkhart); Nathan D. Hooley, Tippecanoe (Kosciusko); Brian C. Hussung, Lawrenceburg (Delaware); Levi Knach, Larwill (Steuben); Lance LaBonte, Whiteland (Huntington); Patrick Labhart, Tell City (Putnam); Patrick T. Malia, Manhattan, Ill. (St. Joseph); and David Moss, Columbus (Howard).

Also, Sean T. Patrick, Wheatfield (unassigned); Kevin Price, Burlington (Carroll); Jet D. Quillen, Nashville (Marion); Brandon J. Shoults, Orleans (Union); Marvin L. Spainhour IV, Clarksville (Marion); Christopher T. Springstun, Charlestown (Putnam); David Taylor, Vero Beach, Fla. (Union); Matthew B. Vossmer, Frankfort, Ky. (Clay); Zachary R. Walker, Indianapolis (Henry); Dustin Whitehead, New Paris (Elkhart); Keith W. Wildeman, Evansville (Starke); and Zachary L. Williams, Valparaiso (unassigned).

"We're happy to have these new officers on board,” said Col. Mike Crider, director of the DNR Division of Law Enforcement. “They were selected through an extensive screening process, completed rigorous training, and represent the cream of the crop. The addition of these individuals brings us to full staff and allows us to improve our services to the citizens of the state."
Founded in 1897, the Law Enforcement Division is the oldest state law enforcement agency, and one of the most versatile.

The DNR employs 214 conservation officers who serve the public and protect the natural Hoosier heritage of Indiana. The Law Enforcement division headquarters is in Indianapolis and operates 10 law enforcement districts throughout the state.

In addition to enforcing state laws, Indiana conservation officers are active in a variety of non-law enforcement activities, such as outdoor education programs including hunter, boater, snowmobile, and trapper education. River Rescue, Cave Rescue, Underwater Search and Recovery and K-9 Teams are specialty response units available statewide whenever needed.

The Law Enforcement Division also has an Investigations Section. These investigations are primarily focused on exploited or commercialized wildlife. They use a variety of techniques including specialized surveillance and undercover operations.

Indiana conservation officers also are often called upon to help during emergencies and natural disasters. CO Recruit School is a physically and mentally demanding 16-week paramilitary-style academy that is managed in three phases by the Division of Law Enforcement’s training section.

The first six weeks of specialized training focuses on intense physical exercise while recruits also are taught investigation skills, water enforcement and laws, case management and report writing, and introduction to firearms.


The second phase lasts four weeks and involves field observation in which recruits are paired with veteran officers to see first hand the day-to-day duties of an Indiana conservation officer.

The final six-week phase consists of more physical training, introduction to firearms law, wildlife identification, ATV/snowmobile laws and operation, river rescue school, and waterfowl law. Recruits also are introduced to defensive tactics and must meet marksmanship qualifications with their issued firearms.

One of the highlights of graduation week is a timed four-lap, 10-mile run at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Indiana helps set sales pace for fishing licenses

Indiana DNR Release:

Recreational fishing is experiencing a national resurgence, and Indiana is one of the states leading the way.

A report issued earlier this week pointed to a 7.7 percent increase nationally in fishing license sales so far this year. Indiana is doing even better with an 8.1 percent increase.

The Indiana DNR sold 49,111 more licenses in the first nine months of 2009 than were purchased in the same period of 2008. The increase resulted in a revenue boost of more than $748,000 to the state’s fish and wildlife fund.

The national sales report was announced by the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation (RBFF) and the American Sportfishing Association (ASA) as the first of a planned quarterly fishing license sales index designed to track trends that have an impact on recreational fishing.

“Reasons for the 2009 license sale increases range from a slow economy, which may allow people more time to engage in outdoor activities, to recreational fishing being a lower cost alternative to other forms of recreation,” said Frank Peterson, president and CEO of the RBFF.

The RBFF is in the second-year of a partnership with Indiana DNR and several other states that promotes fishing to former license buyers through a direct mail marketing campaign.

“Not since the 1970s have we seen a single-year increase in fishing license sales like we’ve seen so far in 2009,” ASA president and CEO Mike Nussman said in a news release issued jointly by the two organizations. “This new license metric will provide everyone with important sales and participation information.”

Indiana is one of 11 states selected for the quarterly index because of its ability to provide consistent sales data that helps illustrate both a national and regional perspective. Other states included in the initial index were Florida, Kansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Texas and Utah. More states will be added to the index as they expand their data reporting capacity.

High School Sports Calendar

Thursday, Oct. 22
VOLLEYBALL: Class A Sectional 54 at Daleville, Southern Wells vs. Marion Lakeview Christian, 6 p.m.; Class 3A Sectional 22 at Maconaquah, FW Wayne vs. Norwell, 6 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 23
FOOTBALL: Class A Sectional 35, South Adams at Southern Wells, 7 p.m.; Class 2A Sectional 27, Bluffton at Eastern (Greentown), 7 p.m.; Class 3A Sectional 19, Norwell at FW Harding, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 24
CROSS COUNTRY: Semi-State at IPFW course, Norwell boys, 1 p.m.; girls’ race, 1:45 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Class A Sectional 54 at Daleville, TBA; Class 2A Sectional 38 at South Adams, Bluffton vs. winner of South Adams vs. FW Bishop Luers, 12:30 p.m., championship at 4 p.m.; Class 3A Sectional 22 at Maconaquah, TBA.

Sports Round-Up by Paul Beitler

3 Knights make NHC soccer teams
Norwell freshman goalkeeper Haley Heller was named to the Northeast Hoosier Conference girls’ second team. In addition, sophomore forward Lauren Johnson was an honorable mention selection.
In NHC boys’ soccer, Norwell senior Dan DeArmond was an honorable mention defender.

Hall of Fame nominations due
Nominations for the Bluffton High School Tiger Hall of Fame are due by Friday in the high school athletic office. For more information contact Athletic Director Steve Thompson at 260-824-3724.

High School Sports Calendar

Thursday, Oct. 22
VOLLEYBALL: Class A Sectional 54 at Daleville, Southern Wells vs. Marion Lakeview Christian, 6 p.m.; Class 3A Sectional 22 at Maconaquah, FW Wayne vs. Norwell, 6 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 23
FOOTBALL: Class A Sectional 35, South Adams at Southern Wells, 7 p.m.; Class 2A Sectional 27, Bluffton at Eastern (Greentown), 7 p.m.; Class 3A Sectional 19, Norwell at FW Harding, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 24
CROSS COUNTRY: Semi-State at IPFW course, Norwell boys, 1 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Class A Sectional 54 at Daleville, TBA; Class 2A Sectional 38 at South Adams, Bluffton vs. winner of South Adams vs. FW Bishop Luers, 12:30 p.m., championship at 4 p.m.; Class 3A Sectional 22 at Maconaquah, TBA.

NWCS Elementary Cross-Country Run (results)

NWCS Elementary CC Meet Grades K-2 (1/2 mile)
Norwell HS Course Date:October 7,2009
Boys Girls
Time Name # Time Name
2:51 Logan House 1 3:17 Rachael Spangler
2:54 Will Geiger 2 3:20 Zoe Duffus
3:04 Cody McCune 3 3:35 Breann Barger
3:04 Camden Lamons 4 3:38 Malaya Copper
3:10 Eli Riley 5 3:40 Olivia Whetsel
3:13 Dallas Topp 6 3:42 Lauren Bales
3:15 Blaine Johnson 7 3:42 Bailey Taylor
3:20 Braden Mallery 8 3:43 Macy Morgan
3:23 Evan Zimmer 9 3:43 Kiersten Boots
3:25 Isaiah Brege 10 3:47 Payton Lamons
3:25 Corey Huss 11 3:47 Jaci Prough
3:30 lance Huffman 12 3:53 Hailey Stormo
3:31 Darren Huss 13 3:56 Emily Simerman
3:32 Ethan Dunnuck 14 4:03 Hailey Gallant
3:36 Kaden Bussel 15 4:13 Annabelle Battiste
3:39 Bo Morgan 16 4:13 Alexia Coratti
3:40 Jaxson Leverton 17 4:17 Aubreyan Heyerly
3:45 Kanyon Pritchard 18 4:21 Megan Kling
3:47 Brett Johnson 19 4:21 Emily Todd
3:49 Max Ringger 20 4:24 Madison Bolinger
3:55 Ari Riley 21 4:32 Lanie Zimmer
4:02 Connor Lamons 22 4:35 Gracyn Clark
4:04 Nolan McGilvery 23 4:40 Alexa Harris
4:05 Garrett Lantz 24 4:41 Sage Thomas
4:06 Jamison Wills 25 4:48 Kyla Study
4:08 Dylan DeWitt 26 4:53 Madysyn Fenstermaker
4:09 Russie Misserbiev 27 4:56 Makayla Study
4:11 Max Stoppenhagen 28 5:00 Allison Dettmer
4:12 Blake Haiflich
4:15 Luke Stoneman
4:16 Owen Newsom
4:18 Krew Bussel
4:41 Chance Harder
4:43 Neegan Anderson
4:44 Miles Babcock
4:46 Luke Golden
5:18 Gavin Shelton
6:18 Kaden Graft
6:33 Zachary Christianson



NWCS Elementary CC Meet Grades K-2 (1/2 mile)
Norwell HS Course Date:October 7,2009
Boys Girls
Time Name # Time Name
2:51 Logan House 1 3:17 Rachael Spangler
2:54 Will Geiger 2 3:20 Zoe Duffus
3:04 Cody McCune 3 3:35 Breann Barger
3:04 Camden Lamons 4 3:38 Malaya Copper
3:10 Eli Riley 5 3:40 Olivia Whetsel
3:13 Dallas Topp 6 3:42 Lauren Bales
3:15 Blaine Johnson 7 3:42 Bailey Taylor
3:20 Braden Mallery 8 3:43 Macy Morgan
3:23 Evan Zimmer 9 3:43 Kiersten Boots
3:25 Isaiah Brege 10 3:47 Payton Lamons
3:25 Corey Huss 11 3:47 Jaci Prough
3:30 lance Huffman 12 3:53 Hailey Stormo
3:31 Darren Huss 13 3:56 Emily Simerman
3:32 Ethan Dunnuck 14 4:03 Hailey Gallant
3:36 Kaden Bussel 15 4:13 Annabelle Battiste
3:39 Bo Morgan 16 4:13 Alexia Coratti
3:40 Jaxson Leverton 17 4:17 Aubreyan Heyerly
3:45 Kanyon Pritchard 18 4:21 Megan Kling
3:47 Brett Johnson 19 4:21 Emily Todd
3:49 Max Ringger 20 4:24 Madison Bolinger
3:55 Ari Riley 21 4:32 Lanie Zimmer
4:02 Connor Lamons 22 4:35 Gracyn Clark
4:04 Nolan McGilvery 23 4:40 Alexa Harris
4:05 Garrett Lantz 24 4:41 Sage Thomas
4:06 Jamison Wills 25 4:48 Kyla Study
4:08 Dylan DeWitt 26 4:53 Madysyn Fenstermaker
4:09 Russie Misserbiev 27 4:56 Makayla Study
4:11 Max Stoppenhagen 28 5:00 Allison Dettmer
4:12 Blake Haiflich
4:15 Luke Stoneman
4:16 Owen Newsom
4:18 Krew Bussel
4:41 Chance Harder
4:43 Neegan Anderson
4:44 Miles Babcock
4:46 Luke Golden
5:18 Gavin Shelton
6:18 Kaden Graft
6:33 Zachary Christianson

High School Sports Calendar

Monday, Oct. 19
C-TEAM FOOTBALL: Norwell at Columbia City, 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, Oct. 22
VOLLEYBALL: Class A Sectional 54 at Daleville, Southern Wells vs. Marion Lakeview Christian, 6 p.m.; Class 3A Sectional 22 at Maconaquah, FW Wayne vs. Norwell, 6 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 23
FOOTBALL: Class A Sectional 35, South Adams at Southern Wells, 7 p.m.; Class 2A Sectional 27, Bluffton at Eastern (Greentown), 7 p.m.; Class 3A Sectional 19, Norwell at FW Harding, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 24
CROSS COUNTRY: Semi-State at IPFW course, 1 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Class A Sectional 54 at Daleville, TBA; Class 2A Sectional 38 at South Adams, Bluffton vs. winner of South Adams vs. FW Bishop Luers, 12:30 p.m., championship at 4 p.m.; Class 3A Sectional 22 at Maconaquah, TBA.

Sports Round-Up by Paul Beitler

Clouser, Mathews place in golf event
Norwell juniors McCormick Clouser and Ross Mathews competed in the Puma Hoosier Junior Golf Championship at Otter Creek in Columbus.
Clouser tied for fourth place with a 10-over par 154 (75-79). Mathews tied for 12th place with a 12-over par 158 (80-78).

Sectional tickets on sale at Norwell
Sectional football tickets for the Norwell Knights’ first-round game against the Harding Hawks will be on sale for $5 through Thursday in the Norwell athletic office while the supply lasts. Office hours are from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Class 3A Sectional 19 game is at Harding in Fort Wayne Friday at 7 p.m.

Marion Boys’ Cross Country Regional

Marion Boys’ Cross Country Regional competition was Saturday, October 17.

The top 15 finishers included 2 Wells County boys. In the far left on the bottom row is Evan Boucher who lives in Wells County but attends Bellmont High School. He finished 5th in 16:23. In the middle row, 2nd from the right is Alex Cushman of Norwell High School. He finished 7th in 16:36. Both Norwell and Bellmont advanced as teams to the New Haven Semi-State meet which will be this Saturday at 1 p.m.

(Thanks to Tamra Boucher for the submitted photos and info!)

Have a picture you'd like to share?

Do you have a neat sports or outdoors picture you'd like posted at this blog? Send it to Online Editor Jerry Battiste or Sports Editor Paul Beitler.

jerryb@news-banner.com
sports@news-banner.com

Sports Round-Up by Paul Beitler

Norwell 7th-graders win 5th quarter
Brandon Birch and Jake Aschliman scored touchdowns to help the Norwell 7th-grade football team defeat Carroll 12-0 in 5th-quarter action Tuesday night at Fort Wayne.
The offensive line of Michael Barnes, Hunter Lazarek, Joey Wilson, Avery Miller and Conner Esmond cleared the way for the scores.
Defensive standouts were Bailey Wilson, Jake Brown, Brandon Norman, Joe Becker, Nathaniel Mayer and Chandler Shady.

High School Sports Calendar

Friday, Oct. 16
FOOTBALL: Leo at Bluffton, 7 p.m.; Southern Wells at South Adams, 7 p.m.; Norwell at Columbia City, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 17
CROSS COUNTRY: Regional at Marion (Indiana Wesleyan University campus), 10:30 a.m.

Monday, Oct. 19
C-TEAM FOOTBALL: Norwell at Columbia City, 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, Oct. 22
VOLLEYBALL: Class A Sectional 54 at Daleville, Southern Wells vs. Marion Lakeview Christian, 6 p.m.; Class 3A Sectional 22 at Maconaquah, FW Wayne vs. Norwell, 6 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 23
FOOTBALL: Class A Sectional 35, South Adams at Southern Wells, 7 p.m.; Class 2A Sectional 27, Bluffton at Eastern (Greentown), 7 p.m.; Class 3A Sectional 19, Norwell at FW Harding, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 24
CROSS COUNTRY: Semi-State at IPFW course, 1 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: IHSAA Class A Sectional 54 at Daleville, TBA; Class 2A Sectional 38 at South Adams, Bluffton vs. winner of South Adams vs. FW Bishop Luers, 12:30 p.m., championship at 4 p.m.; Class 3A Sectional 22 at Maconaquah, TBA.

High School Sports Calendar

Thursday, Oct. 15
VOLLEYBALL: Blackford at Southern Wells, 6 p.m.; Norwell at Bluffton, 6 p.m.
FRESHMAN FOOTBALL: Bluffton at Adams Central, 5 p.m.; Norwell at Homestead (note location moved due to field conditions at Norwell), 6:30 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 16
FOOTBALL: Leo at Bluffton, 7 p.m.; Southern Wells at South Adams, 7 p.m.; Norwell at Columbia City, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 17
JV FOOTBALL: Columbia City at Norwell, cancelled due to field conditions.
CROSS COUNTRY: IHSAA Regional at Marion (Indiana Wesleyan University campus), 10:30 a.m.

Sports Round-Up by Paul Beitler

Crusader girls
second in
NHMLC meet
The Norwell Crusaders placed second in the Northeast Hoosier Middle Level Conference girls’ cross country meet on Wednesday.
Maple Creek edged the Crusaders 42-48, while Indian Springs was third with 102 points.
Samantha Roush of Indian Springs won the girls’ 3,000-meter race in 11:26. Jessie Best was fifth for Norwell in 11:57. Sarah Bauermeister was sixth in 12:00, Rachel Johnson eighth in 12:01, Samantha Tolson 11th in 12:09, Sara DeVoe 18th in 12:25, Abby Springer 33rd in 12:46 and Monica Frauhiger 48th in 13:26.
The Crusaders’ boys’ team finished in ninth. Justin Miskin finished 35th, Nathan Garver 36th, McGerran Clouser 48th, Duke Wang 51st, Evan Roebuck 56th, Austin Harris 60th, and Noah Dirig 63rd.

Norwell
7th-graders
blank Chargers
The Norwell Crusaders’ 7th-grade football team came away with a big 6-0 victory in overtime against Carroll at Huntertown Tuesday night.
Meanwhile, the 8th-grade Crusaders lost 49-0.
The Chargers (5-1) had two goal-line stands in regulation play but could not hold the Crusaders (5-2) out of the end zone in overtime. Piercen Harnish scored to break the goose egg and the defense stopped Carroll.
Offensively, Reggie Hayes and Andrew Oakes made big plays to keep the Chargers off balance. The offensive line of Anthony Richard, Adam Nahrwold, Jace Geiger, Jeremy Davis and Logan Crandle showed continued improvement.
The defense recorded its second shut out in two weeks and have held opponents scoreless for 10 straight quarters. Big play makers were Ashton McCune, Nathan Allison, Ronnie Norman, Nahrwold, Hayes, Oakes, Davis and Harnish.
The 8th-graders (4-3) were haunted by penalties and turnovers, while the defense played hard but was unable to stop Carroll. The defense was led by Austin Fisher, Cam Blount and Colyn Torson. Torson blocked two fieldgoal kicks.

Limbaugh
dropped
ST. LOUIS (AP) — Conservative radio talk show host Rush Limbaugh has been dropped from a group seeking to buy the St. Louis Rams.
Limbaugh was to be a limited partner in a bid led by St. Louis Blues chairman Dave Checketts, but Checketts said in a statement that Limbaugh’s participation had complicated the effort. The group will move forward without him.
Limbaugh’s bid ran into opposition from within the image-conscious NFL on Tuesday when Colts owner Jim Irsay said he would vote against the radio personality.

Urban forestry efforts recognized

Indiana DNR Release:

The Indiana Urban Forest Council, Inc. (IUFC) and the Indiana DNR, Division of Forestry, Community and Urban Forestry (CUF) program recently honored seven individuals and groups for outstanding urban forestry work in 2009.

Those honored are from all over the state and include volunteers, corporations, and non- profit organizations.

Alcoa Foundation was honored as Business of the Year for the Alcoa Foundation/Indiana Tree Planting Partnership. The foundation has awarded $180,000 for urban reforestation in cities and towns, resulting in 2,482 trees being planted throughout the state.

St. Luke’s United Methodist Church and La Plaza were honored as Civic Organizations of the Year for the White River Parkway Planting Project, through which their partnership resulted in the church's donation of $10,000 for 100 trees and the combined 50 volunteers from both groups, who worked together to reforest this major gateway to downtown Indianapolis from the west side.

The Government Entity of the Year award went to the Hamilton County Soil Water Conservation District Backyard Conservation program, which has been successful in assisting development and private property owners establish conservation practices throughout the county.

The Project of the Year honor went to Tree Lafayette for the three seasons of the Twyckenham Boulevard Planting program, in which volunteers and the city planted more than 280 trees along a barren roadway.

Urban Forestry Tree Board of the Year went to Crown Point Tree Board for strides made with the tree ordinance that has set landscape standards that focus on urban natural resource issues and needs for public and private lands.

Two individuals were honored. John Hear of Fishers was awarded the plaque for Indiana Community Tree Steward of the Year for his volunteer commitment and support of the Tree Steward program. Chesterton Street tree commissioner John Schnadenberg was honored as Urban Forestry Individual of the Year for his work with and support of the urban forestry program in that community.

“With over 800,000 vacant street tree spaces throughout the state, the work of these individuals, corporations, government entities, and non-profits becomes more crucial every day. Their effort to enhance and restore the environmental health of Indiana communities by their dedication and work to the various aspects of urban forestry is appreciated,” said Pam Louks, state CUF coordinator.

Award nominations were reviewed and determined by the IUFC Awards Committee during the IUFC Annual Conference held Oct. 14 at Keep Indianapolis Beautiful headquarters on Fletcher Avenue. Each recipient was presented a commemorative plaque by Lindsey Purcell, IUFC president.

Municipalities and non-profits are invited to submit awards for outstanding urban forestry work annually. For more information on the IUFC, awards and how to submit a nomination, see http://www.iufc.org.

For information on statewide urban forestry issues contact the CUF office at (317) 591-1170.

Scout event at Roush Lake Fall Harvest Celebration, Oct. 23-24

Indiana DNR Release:

The staff at J. Edward Roush Lake will provide scouts with badge information and opportunity to earn a patch made by the Department of Natural Resources, Oct. 23-24, during the fall harvest celebration at the property.

From 2 to 4:30 p.m. on Oct. 24, scouts and youth clubs are invited to take part in instruction with their troop and/or parents in archery, canoeing, pellet guns and survival tips. Scouts will earn a patch for this participation. Scouts are required to register in advance by calling (260) 468-2127. A $6 fee covers both days events for scouts, as well as overnight camping fees, and the patch.

Scouts are then invited to join the Harvest Fest celebration. Hot dogs, drinks and chips are served from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. S’more kits will be sold for $1, along with a chance to cook the campfire treat. Hay rides with stories from the past will be available from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Get a pumpkin during your ride and enjoy carving together. We have a small supply of carving tools. Kid’s games, a campfire and music by the band Small Town are also part of the festivities.

At 6:30 p.m., the results of this year’s Dutch Oven Cook-off and the winner of the grand prize package sponsored by Bozarth’s Country Store and Campground will be announced.

All children must be with a responsible adult. No child care provided.

Call (260) 468-2165 for more information.

High School Sports Calendar

Thursday, Oct. 15
VOLLEYBALL: Blackford at Southern Wells, 6 p.m.; Norwell at Bluffton, 6 p.m.
FRESHMAN FOOTBALL: Bluffton at Adams Central, 5 p.m.; Norwell at Homestead (note location moved due to field conditions at Norwell), 6:30 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 16
FOOTBALL: Leo at Bluffton, 7 p.m.; Southern Wells at South Adams, 7 p.m.; Norwell at Columbia City, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 17
JV FOOTBALL: Columbia City at Norwell, cancelled due to field conditions.
CROSS COUNTRY: IHSAA Regional at Marion (Indiana Wesleyan University campus), 10:30 a.m.

Sports Round-Up by Paul Beitler

Bluffton sweeps Jay
in volleyball action
Kara Fiechter led the Bluffton Lady Tigers with 10 kills and 12 assists in a three-game sweep of Jay County in volleyball action Tuesday evening.
The Bluffton girls improved their record to 11-16, defeating the Patriots 25-21, 25-16 and 25-15.
Other scoring leaders were Maggie Garrett with seven kills and Felicia Prible with four. Hannah Gilliam added six assists. Garrett also scored three aces in serving; Carlie Crosbie and Shelby Taylor added two each.
Crosbie had a stellar night on defense, recording 22 digs. Garrett was credited with eight and Fiechter with seven.

Knights top Raiders
The Norwell Knights won the intra-county girls’ volleyball battle against the Southern Wells Raiders Tuesday night at the Raiderdome.
Norwell (16-15) swept the contest in three games 25-13, 25-18, 25-20.
Kelsey Kline led the Knights’ hitting attack with eight kills, while Mallory Bushee and Lauren Klansek each served up four aces. Jessica Rupright added three blocks. Bushee also had 22 assists and Liz Ault had 20 digs.
The Raiders’ Julia Bartlett also had eight kills and one block. Taylor Beetz and Chelsea Mossburg each had three kills. Mallory Preston and Shawna Collins both had two kills. Cristin Carter and Erica Fate each had one block.
Preston also had 16 assists, 13 digs and two aces. Karie Lavanchy also had two aces. Megan Bryant, Chelsea Adams and Collins each had one ace. Adams also had 12 digs.
In the junior varsity match, Norwell (12-18) downed the Raiders 25-8, 25-8. Rupright had six kills and two blocks in dual action. Rebekah Witzig served four aces and Amber Haiflich had nine assists.

High School Sports Calendar

Tuesday, Oct. 13
CROSS COUNTRY: IHSAA Sectional at Bellmont, 5 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Norwell at Southern Wells, 6 p.m.; Bluffton at Jay County, 6 p.m.
GIRLS SOCCER: IHSAA Sectional at Marion, Norwell vs. Huntington North, 7 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 15
GIRLS SOCCER: IHSAA Sectional at Marion, TBD, 5 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Blackford at Southern Wells, 6 p.m.; Norwell at Bluffton, 6 p.m.
FRESHMAN FOOTBALL: Bluffton at Adams Central, 5 p.m.; Norwell at Homestead (note location moved due to field conditions at Norwell), 6:30 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 16
FOOTBALL: Leo at Bluffton, 7 p.m.; Southern Wells at South Adams, 7 p.m.; Norwell at Columbia City, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 17
JV FOOTBALL: Columbia City at Norwell, cancelled due to field conditions.
CROSS COUNTRY: IHSAA Regional at Marion (Indiana Wesleyan University campus, 10:30 a.m.
GIRLS SOCCER: IHSAA Sectional at Marion, championship, TBD.

Sports Round-Up by Paul Beitler

Grace Adams shines for Grizzlies
Franklin College senior Grace Adams helped the Grizzlies capture their first Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference women’s golf championship since 2007 on Sunday.
Franklin, which held an 11-shot margin after the first 18 holes, weathered a determined comeback by host Transylvania University and edged the Pioneers by two strokes in the conference’s title event at The University Club course in Lexington, Ky.
The Grizzlies earned automatic qualification for the 11th annual NCAA Division III national championships, which will be played May 11-14 in Howey-in-the-Hills, Fla.
Franklin, which won its 11th league title overall, finished with a two-day team total of 676, followed by Transylvania with 678, Rose-Hulman Institute with 730 and Hanover College with 737.
Adams, who graduated from Norwell finished with a 174 total to tie for seventh place and All-HCAC honors.

Hillsdale stuns Grand Valley
The Hillsdale College Chargers’ football team celebrated its sixth-straight homecoming victory Saturday by ending Grand Valley State’s winning streak.
The Chargers won 27-24 before more than 3,000 fans at Frank “Muddy” Waters Stadium in Hillsdale, Mich. Hillsdale is now 5-2 and 4-2 in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.
Grand Valley State (6-1, 5-1) was previously undefeated and ranked No. 1 in NCAA Div. II. It was the Lakers’ first conference loss in five years.
Matt Terhune, a 2007 Norwell graduate, is a junior tight end for the Chargers.

Homestead defeats Norwell jayvees
The Norwell Knights’ junior varsity football team was defeated by the Homestead Spartans 55-14 Monday night at Fort Wayne.
Landon Curry scored the Knights’ touchdowns on two kickoff returns of 79 and 70 yards.

Fall harvest celebration at J. Edward Roush Lake, Oct. 23-24

Fall fun is coming to J. Edward Roush Lake on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 23 and 24, with its annual fall festival for all ages.

The Little Turtle Recreation Area main shelter house will be the center of the festivities. Attendees should be sure to wear a Halloween costume and bring a bag on Saturday for collecting candy.

On the previous night, Friday, at 7 p.m., the Fort Wayne Astronomical Society will teach guests about the night sky and how to look through the telescopes.

On Saturday, hot dogs, drinks and chips will be served from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. A s’more kit will be sold for $1, along with the chance to cook the campfire treat. Hayrides featuring stories from the past will be available from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Guests will be able to get a pumpkin during their ride and enjoy carving together afterward. The park will have a small supply of carving tools available. From 5 to 7 p.m., kids games, a campfire and music by the band Small Town will be offered.

At 6:30 p.m., the tasty results of this year’s Dutch Oven Cook-off will available and the summer’s first-place team will earn the grand prize package sponsored by Bozarth’s Country Store and Campground.

The Trunk-or-Treat time is 7 to 7:30 p.m. All children must be with a responsible adult. No child care will be provided.

Admission is $3 per person (adults and children over 2 years old). One admission covers both days if participants bring their paid admittance pass with them.

Call (260) 468-2165 for more information.

High School Sports Calendar

Monday, Oct. 12
VOLLEYBALL: Lakeview Christian at Southern Wells (Varsity only), 6 p.m.; Norwell at Woodlan, 6 p.m.
JV FOOTBALL: Southern Wells at Eastbrook, 7:15 p.m.; Bluffton at Adams Central, 6 p.m.; Norwell at Homestead, 6:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Oct. 13
CROSS COUNTRY: IHSAA Sectional at Bellmont, 5 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Norwell at Southern Wells, 6 p.m.; Bluffton at Jay County, 6 p.m.
GIRLS SOCCER: IHSAA Sectional at Marion, Norwell vs. Huntington North, 7 p.m.

Thursday, Oct. 15
GIRLS SOCCER: IHSAA Sectional at Marion, TBD, 5 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Blackford at Southern Wells, 6 p.m.; Norwell at Bluffton, 6 p.m.
FRESHMAN FOOTBALL: Bluffton at Adams Central, 5 p.m.; Homestead at Norwell, 6:30 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 16
FOOTBALL: Leo at Bluffton, 7 p.m.; Southern Wells at South Adams, 7 p.m.; Norwell at Columbia City, 7 p.m.

High School Sports Calendar

Friday, Oct. 9
FOOTBALL: Adams Central at Bluffton (Fall Festival), 7 p.m.; Heritage at Southern Wells, 7 p.m.; Homestead at Norwell, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 10
JV VOLLEYBALL: Bluffton, Southern Wells at Canterbury Invitational, 11 a.m.

Monday, Oct. 12
VOLLEYBALL: Lakeview Christian at Southern Wells (Varsity only), 6 p.m.; Norwell at Woodlan, 6 p.m.
JV FOOTBALL: Southern Wells at Eastbrook, 7:15 p.m.; Bluffton at Adams Central, 6 p.m.; Norwell at Homestead, 6:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Oct. 13
CROSS COUNTRY: IHSAA Sectional at Bellmont, 5 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Norwell at Southern Wells, 6 p.m.; Bluffton at Jay County, 6 p.m.
GIRLS SOCCER: IHSAA Sectional at Marion, Norwell vs. Huntington North, 7 p.m.

Thursday, Oct. 15
GIRLS SOCCER: IHSAA Sectional at Marion, TBD, 5 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Blackford at Southern Wells, 6 p.m.; Norwell at Bluffton, 6 p.m.
FRESHMAN FOOTBALL: Bluffton at Adams Central, 5 p.m.; Homestead at Norwell, 6:30 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 16
FOOTBALL: Leo at Bluffton, 7 p.m.; Southern Wells at South Adams, 7 p.m.; Norwell at Columbia City, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 17
JV FOOTBALL: Columbia City at Norwell, 10 a.m.
CROSS COUNTRY: IHSAA Regional at Marion (Indiana Wesleyan University campus, 10:30 a.m.
GIRLS SOCCER: IHSAA Sectional at Marion, championship, TBD.

Sports Round-Up by Paul Beitler

Knights spike Homestead
The Norwell volleyball team ended its Northeast Hoosier Conference slate Thursday night with a victory over Homestead at Fort Wayne.
The Knights (15-14) swept the Spartans in three games 25-12, 25-13, 25-22.
Lauren Klansek had 10 kills and three aces. Amanda McAfee and Kelsey Kline each had four blocks. Mallory Bushee had 28 assists and Liz Ault had 19 digs.
Homestead won the junior varsity match 25-8, 25-18. The Knights (10-18) were led by Rebekah Witzig with five kills. Amber Haiflich had six assists. Jessica Rupright had seven digs and Tayler Johnson six.
In the freshman match, the Spartans won 25-15, 25-6. Jalyn Kremer had two aces for Norwell (4-14). Kourtney Lazarek had two assists. Catrina Zepke and Heather Sterrett each had one kill. Cassandra Heckber and Zepke each had a block. Jamie Shipley and Sterrett each had two digs.

Heritage soccer team nips Norwell girls
Brooke Conrad scored a second-half goal to lead the Heritage Patriots to a 1-0 victory over the Norwell Knights in girls’ soccer action Thursday evening at Norwell.
Heritage goalkeeper Brittany Franke registered the shutout with nine saves. Conrad and Kendra Goranson each had four shots.
Norwell (5-10-1) was led by Lauren Johnson and Caitlin Ailor with three shots apiece. Goalkeeper Haley Heller had 16 saves.
There was no junior varsity match.

Leo wins ACAC volleyball tournament
Jillian Peck, Jenae Bennington and Alexis Meeks helped the Leo Lions win the Allen County Athletic Conference volleyball tournament Thursday night at Monroeville.
The Lions (22-5) defeated the host Heritage Patriots 25-15, 25-21 in the championship match. Leo also was the season ACAC champion.
Peck had 10 kills and Bennington nine in the final match, while Meeks had 19 assists and two aces. Keanna Gary had three blocks.
Leo defeated Adams Central 25-18, 21-25, 25-22 in the semifinals. Meeks had 30 assists and Peck 18 kills. Chelsea Selking had 12 kills for the Jets (19-8) and Alexa Baller had four aces. Hali Wendell had eight kills.
Heritage eliminated Woodlan 23-25, 25-17, 25-22 in the semifinals.

Register for Future Lady Tigers
Registrations are still being accepted for Bluffton’s Future Lady Tigers. Cost is $25, including a team jersey. Please bring completed form to Bluffton High School Saturday, Oct. 10. Girls in grades 3-4 will meet from 8-9:30 a.m. and grades 5-6 from 9:30-11 a.m. For registration forms or more information, please call coach Vicki VanMatre at 824-3724, ext. 7304, or email vvanmatre@bhmsd.k12.in.us.

Tailgate party before Tigers’ game
The Bluffton Athletic Boosters will host a tailgate meal Friday from 5-6:30 p.m. before the football game against Adams Central at 7 p.m. Chili, hot dogs, chips, dessert and drinks will be provided for $5.
Norwell tailgate party scheduled
Norwell fans will be tailgating in the Norwell parking lot from 5:30-6:30 p.m. prior to Friday’s game against Homestead. Everyone is welcome.

Enterline to miss Hoosiers’ season
INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Indiana sophomore Lindsay Enterline will miss this basketball season after injuring her knee during preseason conditioning.
The team made the announcement Thursday but did not provide details of the injury, citing federal privacy laws.
Enterline, who graduated from Heritage High School, played guard and forward on a senior-dominated team last season. She averaged 1.5 points per game and finished with 22 rebounds, six steals and four blocks in 26 games. Enterline was expected to have a bigger role this season.

Natural Resources Commission Advisory Council site changed

Indiana DNR Release:

The next regular meeting of the Natural Resources Commission's Advisory Council has been moved to the Fort Harrison State Park Inn (formerly the Kendall Inn), 5830 North Post Road, Roosevelt Room, Indianapolis.

All other information remains the same for the meeting, scheduled for Oct. 14, at 10:30 a.m. The original site was The Garrison, also at Fort Harrison State Park.

Among other items for discussion, the council will consider a recommendation that the NRC approve a new non-rule policy document that provides a list of public freshwater lakes in northern Indiana, changes in rules regarding the hunting of ruffed grouse and wild turkeys, and public comments regarding fishing in the Brookville Lake tailwaters.

The entire agenda for this meeting is now available online at http://www.in.gov/nrc/2334.htm.

To receive notification of the latest NRC information via e-mail, go to the NRC’s homepage at http://www.IN.gov/nrc/index.htm and click on the icon for e-mail updates.

Retired DNR employee gets national award

Indiana DNR Release:

Ted Leverman, former public access coordinator in the DNR Division of Fish and Wildlife, recently accepted the national Outstanding Service Award from the States Organization for Boating Access (SOBA).

The award is presented to an individual or agency which has made either a one-time or continuing contribution to improved access on our nation’s public waters for boaters and anglers. The organization and its awards program are described further at: http://www.sobaus.org/conference/conference2.html

In just over 15 years with the DNR before he retired in May, Leverman was directly involved with the acquisition and development of at least 84 public access sites around Indiana. He completed pre-acquisition contaminants surveys, worked with various entities, addressed public concerns, and completed the appropriate compliance work. In addition to the successful acquisitions, he investigated countless other potential sites.

He played a key role in the deployment of the “Where to Fish Finder” on the DNR Web site (http://www.in.gov/dnr/fishwild/3591.htm). The “Where to Fish Finder” allows Indiana sportsman to access a variety of information promoting access sites in Indiana. The site remains one of the division’s most popular Web pages.

While still working for DNR, Leverman served on a SOBA committee to develop a DVD on construction techniques, a collaborative effort from a variety of people nationwide. Despite retiring, he has continued to serve on that committee.

Ossian Conservation Club raffle winner!

The Ossian Conservation Club had their raffle drawing at the October membership meeting Friday night, October the 2nd. The holder of the winning ticket for the 10-22 Ruger was Tony Fey. Pictured presenting the rifle is Darrell Reynolds, President of the Ossian Conservation Club, winner Tony with daughter Emma and wife Amanda. At right is Steve Roe, owner of the Sportsman's Lodge where the rifle was purchased for the raffle.

(Congratulations! -jb)

Natural Resources Commission Advisory Council meets Oct. 14

Indiana DNR Release:

The next regular meeting of the Natural Resources Commission's Advisory Council is scheduled for Oct. 14, at The Garrison, Fort Harrison State Park, in Indianapolis, at 10:30 a.m.

Among other items for discussion, the council will consider a recommendation that the NRC approve a new non-rule policy document that provides a list of public freshwater lakes in northern Indiana, changes in rules regarding the hunting of ruffed grouse and wild turkeys, and public comments regarding fishing in the Brookville Lake tailwaters.

The entire agenda for this meeting is now available online at http://www.in.gov/nrc/2334.htm.

To receive notification of the latest NRC information via e-mail, go to the NRC’s homepage at http://www.in.gov/nrc/index.htm and click on the icon for e-mail updates.

Waterfowl hunting season opens Oct. 17

Indiana DNR Release:

If a sunrise over fog laden water paints the picture of your hunting passion, then gather your decoys and dust off your gun for the opening of waterfowl season, Oct. 17.

Indiana waterfowl hunters have a lot to be excited about this year, according to DNR waterfowl biologist Adam Phelps.

“Conditions have been good this year on the northern prairies for breeding ducks, much wetter than last year. This is important because more water equals more ducks. Indiana’s breeding Canada geese have also had a strong breeding season due to favorable weather,” Phelps said.

Phelps, however, also cautioned that waterfowl hunting in Indiana is weather-dependent.

“As a migration state, Indiana needs strong cold fronts from the north to push ducks to us. Without strong fronts, ducks are more likely to trickle south a few at a time, rather than in the big pushes we like to see.”

An estimated 17,466 duck hunters harvested approximately 118,500 ducks in Indiana last season. The top five duck species in Indiana were: mallard, 72,400; wood duck, 16,500; gadwall, 6,900; green-winged teal, 5,200; and blue-winged teal, 3,900. An estimated 14,581 goose hunters harvested approximately 67,700 Canada geese.
Waterfowl hunting season in Indiana is divided into three zones: North, South and Ohio River. Each zone has different a season for ducks and Canada geese. Light (snow/Ross) geese, brant and white-fronted geese are regulated statewide.

The North zone is defined as that part of Indiana north of a line extending east from the Illinois border along Indiana 18 to U.S. 31; north along U.S. 31 to U.S. 24; east on U.S. 24 to Huntington; and southeast on U.S. 224 to the Ohio border. Duck season in the North zone is Oct. 17, 2009 - Dec. 15, 2009. Canada goose seasons are Oct. 17, 2009 - Oct. 18, 2009, and Nov. 7, 2009 - Jan. 17, 2010.

The South Zone is that portion of the state south of the North zone boundary and north of the Ohio River zone. Duck seasons in the South zone are Oct. 24, 2009 - Nov. 1, 2009, and Nov. 25, 2009 - Jan. 14, 2010. Canada goose seasons are Oct. 24, 2009 - Nov. 1, 2009, and
Nov. 25, 2009 - Jan. 28, 2010.

The Ohio River zone is that portion of the state south of a line extending east from the Illinois border along Interstate 64 to New Albany; east on Indiana 62 to Indiana 56; east on Indiana 56 to Vevay; along Indiana 156 along the Ohio River to North Landing; north on Indiana 56 to U.S. 50; and northeast on U.S. 50 to the Ohio border. Duck seasons in the Ohio River Zone are Oct. 31, 2009 - Nov. 1, 2009, and Nov. 28, 2009 - Jan. 24, 2010. Canada geese seasons are Oct. 31, 2009 - Nov. 1, 2009, and Nov. 21, 2009 - Jan 31, 2010.
The daily bag limit for ducks is six. This includes any combination of goldeneyes, ruddy ducks, ring-necked ducks, buffleheads, gadwalls, long-tailed ducks, scoters, teal, wigeon and shovelers. There are additional bag limit restrictions on numerous duck species. Review these restrictions online at http://www.in.gov/dnr/fishwild/3569.htm. The possession limit for Canada geese, white-fronted geese and brant is two times the daily limit. There is no possession limit for light geese.

The statewide season for Light (snow/Ross) geese is Oct. 17, 2009 - Jan. 29, 2010, with a daily bag limit of 20 and no possession limit. Brant season is Oct. 17, 2009 - Jan. 29, 2010 with a daily limit of one and a possession limit of two. White-fronted geese season is Nov. 7, 2009 - Jan. 31, 2010, with a daily limit of one and a possession limit of two.
The youth waterfowl seasons are also zone specific. The North zone season is Oct. 10, 2009 - Oct. 11, 2009, South zone is Oct. 17, 2009 - Oct. 18, 2009, and Ohio River is Oct. 24, 2009 - Oct. 25, 2009. The youth seasons are open to hunters 15 years of age or younger. To participate, youths must be accompanied by an adult at least 18 years of age. An adult may accompany more than one youth. The accompanying adult may not hunt waterfowl that day (except snow geese or brant when and where the season is open). Bag and species limits are the same as those allowed in the regular season.

A hunter must possess a hunting license, resident youth consolidated hunting license, disabled American veteran’s hunting license, or lifetime hunting license in addition to a state waterfowl stamp privilege and HIP registration number. Any hunter 16 years or older must have a signed federal duck stamp when hunting ducks and geese. Resident landowners or lessees, hunting on farmland they own or lease, are exempt from the state license requirement except that a federal duck stamp and HIP registration are still required.

See www.wildlife.IN.gov for additional waterfowl hunting regulations.

High School Sports Calendar

Wednesday, Oct. 7
BOYS TENNIS: IHSAA Regional at Delta, Norwell vs. Anderson Highland, 4:30 p.m. (rescheduled due to rainout).

Thursday, Oct. 8
BOYS TENNIS: IHSAA Regional at Delta, championship match.
BOYS SOCCER: IHSAA Sectional at Bellmont; Heritage vs. New Haven, 5 p.m.; Norwell vs. Bellmont, 7 p.m.
GIRLS SOCCER: Heritage at Norwell (Varsity only), 5 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Allen County Athletic Conference Tournament at Heritage; Norwell at Homestead, 6:15 p.m.
FOOTBALL: C-Team -- Adams Central at Southern Wells, 5 p.m.; Freshman -- Norwell at DeKalb, 6:30 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 9
FOOTBALL: Adams Central at Bluffton (Fall Festival), 7 p.m.; Heritage at Southern Wells, 7 p.m.; Homestead at Norwell, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 10
BOYS TENNIS: IHSAA Semi-State, TBD.
JV VOLLEYBALL: Bluffton, Southern Wells at Canterbury Invitational, 11 a.m.
BOYS SOCCER: IHSAA Sectional at Bellmont, championship, 7 p.m.

Sports Round-Up by Paul Beitler

7th-grade Crusaders blank Falcons
The Norwell Crusaders’ 7th-grade football team defeated the Summit Falcons 12-0 Tuesday night at the Courtyard.
Piercen Harnish ran for two touchdowns. Jake Ashliman and Brandon Burch had significant positive runs, while Andrew Oakes hauled in a 20-yard pass from Harnish.
The Crusaders (4-2) had four quarterback sacks by Nathan Allison, Jeremy Davis, Adam Nahrwold and Joey Wilson. Reggie Hayes and Harnish both intercepted passes to help secure the shutout. Other defensive standouts were Ashton McCune, Ronnie Norman and Burch.

Tailgate party before Tigers’ game
The Bluffton Athletic Boosters will host a tailgate meal Friday from 5-6:30 p.m. before the football game against Adams Central at 7 p.m. Chili, hot dogs, chips, dessert and drinks will be provided for $5.

Preschooler deer program at Salamonie, Oct. 14-15

Indiana DNR Release:

White-tailed deer have remained a favorite animal of children since Disney’s Bambi first graced the silver screen in 1942. Help continue that tradition by taking your 2- to 5-year-old to Salamonie Reservoir’s “Deer Me” program, Oct. 14 or 15, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. to share in the fun of learning all about deer and their life in nature.

During this hour-and-a-half program, children and their parent or guardian can enjoy activities focused around white-tailed deer. Rain or shine, the program is planned to be both indoors and outdoors, so particpants should dress accordingly. Participants should plan to arrive at the Salamonie Interpretive Center at least 15 minutes early.

There is a $2 fee per child for the program. The property entrance fee is waived for program attendees. Participants can choose to bring their lunch to eat together after the event. To register, call (260) 468-2127.

Well-known Patoka Lake bald eagle died yesterday

Indiana DNR Release:

Bald Eagle C52, which appeared in Department of Natural Resources shows at the State Fair for the past eight years and with the DNR's Patoka Lake Interpretive Services for the past 20 ½ years, died yesterday while undergoing surgery.

"Thousands of people became aware of the life of bald eagles through the program with C52," said Maria Abel-Crecelius, the park's interpretive naturalist in Birdseye.

C52 came to Indiana from his nest in Tongass National Forest in Alaska in July 1988. From there, he was transported to Lake Monroe and became the 52nd bald eagle in its hack tower. The eagles in the tower were to be raised by DNR staff to the age of 3-4 months, then released and allowed to fledge, helping Indiana's eagle population to eventually thrive once again.

As C52 (his leg band identification for Indiana) took his place with two other young eagles in the nest area of the tower, DNR staff noticed difficulty with his right wing not extending. Further tests and exams by Minnesota Rehab and Research diagnosed a genetic defect. C52 had hatched with that wing drawn up in a fixed position, greatly reducing his ability to survive in the wild, but launching a career that would make him familiar to many Hoosiers

"From January 1989 when he arrived at Patoka Lake Visitor Center until yesterday, C52 was a valuable asset to the Interpretive Services," Abel-Crecelius said. "Thousands of people have enjoyed the opportunity to see this wild bird up close and learn about the habits and habitat of bald eagles. He was a symbol of our country, an ambassador for the species and a celebration of the successful re-introduction of eagles to Indiana.

"Most recently, he was part of the Hoosier Outdoor Experience in Indianapolis in the DNR State Parks and Reservoirs tent on Sept. 26."

The Indiana Natural Resources Foundation supports Patoka's ongoing raptor care and programs through donations. Contributions to this fund can be made online at www.IndianaNRF.org or by calling 317-234-5447.

C52's death occurred during the exploratory procedures in Louisville at 11:20 a.m. The U.S. Fish & Wildlife and other agencies have been notified. The remains were sent to the National Eagle Repository in Commerce City, Colo., per federal law.

High School Sports Calendar

Tuesday, Oct. 6
CROSS COUNTRY: Allen County Athletic Conference meet at Adams Central, 5:30 p.m.
BOYS TENNIS: IHSAA Regional at Delta, Norwell vs. Anderson Highland, 4:30 p.m..
VOLLEYBALL: Allen County Athletic Conference Tournament at Heritage; Southern Wells vs. Leo, 6 p.m.; Bluffton vs. Adams Central, 7:15 p.m.; Norwell at East Noble, 6 p.m.

Wednesday, Oct. 7
BOYS TENNIS: IHSAA Regional at Delta, championship match.

Thursday, Oct. 8
BOYS SOCCER: IHSAA Sectional at Bellmont; Heritage vs. New Haven, 5 p.m.; Norwell vs. Bellmont, 7 p.m.
GIRLS SOCCER: Heritage at Norwell (Varsity only), 5 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Allen County Athletic Conference Tournament at Heritage; Norwell at Homestead, 6:15 p.m.
FOOTBALL: C-Team -- Adams Central at Southern Wells, 5 p.m.; Freshman -- Norwell at DeKalb, 6:30 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 9
FOOTBALL: Adams Central at Bluffton (Fall Festival), 7 p.m.; Heritage at Southern Wells, 7 p.m.; Homestead at Norwell, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 10
BOYS TENNIS: IHSAA Semi-State, TBD.
JV VOLLEYBALL: Bluffton, Southern Wells at Canterbury Invitational, 11 a.m.
BOYS SOCCER: IHSAA Sectional at Bellmont, championship, 7 p.m.

Sports Round-Up by Paul Beitler

Norwell girls lose soccer match
The Norwell Knights girls’ soccer team was defeated by the Columbia City Eagle 5-1 on Monday at Columbia City in its final Northeast Hoosier Conference match of the season.
Lauren Johnson broke up a Columbia City shutout with a second-half goal. Norwell goalkeeper Haley Heller had 23 saves.
Columbia City’s goals were scored by Cassie Garesis, Erica Spade, Sarah Opliger, Kaitlyn Boner and Chelsey Roush. Boner had 13 shots and Roush 10. Goalkeeper Corriana Raypole made two saves.
The Knights (5-9-1) finished 2-5 in the conference. Columbia City won the junior varsity match 3-0.

Kaylee Imel
helps Broncos
Western Michigan freshman Kaylee Imel tied for 54th place at the 34th Nittany Lion Women’s Invitational to help the Broncos tie for third-place over the weekend at State College, Pa. Imel finished the 54-hole tournament with rounds of 81, 79, 84 for 244.

Paul Frank plays for Wittenberg
Paul Frank, a 2008 Norwell graduate, had his first taste of college varsity football action Saturday, playing much of the fourth quarter for Wittenberg University.
Frank, a sophomore defensive tackle, helped the Tigers whip Hiram 70-7 at Springfield, Ohio. Wittenberg is 4-0 overall and 2-0 in the North Coast Athletic Conference.
Frank also played Sunday in Wittenberg’s 23-3 junior varsity win at Wilmington College of Ohio and recorded his first quarterback sack.
Frank was a starter on the offensive line for Norwell during his senior year. He is a son of Geoff and Mary Lynn Frank of Bluffton.

Ratcliffe to represent USA Baseball
Norwell graduate Brett Ratcliffe will be representing the USA Baseball 14-and-under National Team as a pitching and catching coach, when he leaves Saturday for Miami to select players for the United States team. The team will begin play in Ecuador at the COPABE “A” Pan American games Oct. 17-25. Ratcliffe is a teacher and assistant baseball coach at DeKalb High School.

Free wrestling camp at Norwell
The Norwell High School wrestling team will be holding a free camp for elementary students in grades 3-5 on Oct. 12-16 from 5-6:30 p.m. in the wrestling room. Students must have a signed parent consent form and insurance. Camp forms are available in the athletic office.

Southern Wells Girls' Cross-Country Team

Members of the Southern Wells high school and junior high school girls' cross country teams celebrate their respective second-place finishes at the South Adams Invitational in Berne on Saturday.

(Front row, left to right) Emily Pinkerton, Kennedy Rhodes, Chloe Elam, Chloe Maddox, Meghan Yencer, Ashley Lefebvre.

(Second row, left to right) Kayona Benefiel, Josie Rhodes, Autumn Stevens, Brooke Penrod, Jordyn Sills, Timber Tucker, Ashton Grube.

(Third row, left to right) Samantha Rhodes, Ivy Maddox, Carissa Carter and Ashton Prible.

High School Sports Calendar

Monday, Oct. 5
GIRLS SOCCER: Norwell at Columbia City, 5 p.m.
BOYS SOCCER: Columbia City at Norwell, 5 p.m.
JV FOOTBALL: DeKalb at Norwell, 6:30 p.m.
FRESHMAN FOOTBALL: Heritage at Bluffton, 5 p.m.

Tuesday, Oct. 6
CROSS COUNTRY: Allen County Athletic Conference meet at Adams Central, 5:30 p.m.
BOYS TENNIS: IHSAA Regional at Delta, Norwell vs. Anderson Highland, 4:30 p.m..
VOLLEYBALL: Allen County Athletic Conference Tournament at Heritage; Southern Wells vs. Leo, 6 p.m.; Bluffton vs. Adams Central, 7:15 p.m.; Norwell at East Noble, 6 p.m.

Wednesday, Oct. 7
BOYS TENNIS: IHSAA Regional at Delta, championship match.

Sports Round-Up by Paul Beitler

Norwell girls zap North Side in soccer
On a pair of first-half goals, the Norwell Knights girls’ soccer team blanked the North Side Redskins 2-0 Saturday at Fort Wayne.
Lauren Johnson and Caitlin Ailor, assisted by Danielle McClish, scored the goals and the Knights upped their season record to 5-8-1.
Norwell goalkeeper Haley Heller stopped 17 shots to record the shutout. Johnson led the Knights with 10 shots, while Tasia DeLeon and McClish each challenged North Side with five shots. Ailor and Morgin Imel both had four shots and Sydney Sheltz two.

BHS C-Team spikers places fourth
The Bluffton Tigers placed fourth at the Adams Central C-Team Volleyball Tournament Saturday at Monroe.
Adams Central was first, beating Leo 23-25, 25-13, 15-10 in the championship match. Woodlan downed Bluffton 25-10, 25-12 in the consolation match.
In earlier action, Bluffton topped Heritage 25-20, 25-21 and fell to Leo 25-12, 25-14.
Southern Wells did not fare as well in the preliminary round, losing 25-9, 25-10 to Adams Central and 25-9, 25-22 to Woodland.

Crusaders win state CC meet
The Crusader Running Club won the Indiana middle school small school cross country championship on Saturday at Carmel.
The Crusaders netted 92 points and Zionsville West was second with 102.
Vincennes Clark’s Jene’e Goodwin won the 3,000-meter race in 11:24. Rachel Johnson led the Crusaders, placing seventh in 11:37. Jessie Best was ninth in 11:40, Sarah Bauermeister 21st in 11:55, Samantha Tolson 29th in 12:10, Sara DeVoe 33rd in 12:12, Abby Springer 86th in 12:48 and Ally Smith 174th in 14:01.

Fall Festival Weekend, Oubache SP, Oct. 30-31

Indiana DNR Release:

Join in the fun during Ouabache State Park's Fall Festival, Oct. 30-31.

The festival is an opportunity for families to enjoy the fall weather and participate in a variety of events in a safe environment. This year’s event features a campsite decorating contest and pumpkin painting contest, along with a new martial arts demonstration.

Attendees can learn about the stars in the night sky at Stars 101 before the Fall Star Party starts at 8 p.m. on Friday at the pool, weather permitting.

To participate in the autumn scrapbooking activity, register by Oct. 20. Bring a photo or two and any supplies you would like to use or are willing to share. Cricket Expressions' cutting machine will be available for use.

To participate in Nature’s Treasures, where you make your own treasure chest out of a gallon milk jug, participants also must register by Oct. 20.

For the pot luck harvest soup dinner, registration date is Oct. 15. A program charge of $3 per person will be collected—50 individuals must sign up for this event to take place. Hayrides also will be offered, as will a Fall Festival Fair.

Volunteers are still needed to assist with the pot luck soup, decorate Campview Shelter, run games during the Fall Festival Fair, and help with other activities.

To register, call (260) 824-0926, Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., fill out a form (found on the reverse side of the Fall Festival schedule) or e-mail OuabacheInterp@dnr.IN.gov, the same address to which those wishing to volunteer should e-mail.

Normal park admission fees will apply (Indiana Residents: $5 per vehicle Friday through Sunday and Holidays, Out of State: $7 per vehicle daily). Copies of the Fall Festival Schedule are available at Ouabache’s Main Gate, Campground Control, and at http://www.state.in.us/dnr/parklake/12066.htm.

For more information about the interpretive services, or becoming involved with interpretive and cultural events at Ouabache State Park, contact the interpretive naturalist at (260) 824-0926 OuabacheInterp@dnr.IN.gov.

High School Sports Calendar

Friday, Oct. 2
BOYS TENNIS: IHSAA Sectional at Norwell, Norwell vs. Huntington North; Bluffton vs. Adams Central, 4:30 p.m.
FOOTBALL: Adams Central at Southern Wells, 7 p.m.; Bluffton at Heritage, 7 p.m.; Norwell at DeKalb, 7 p.m.;

Saturday, Oct. 3
BOYS TENNIS: IHSAA Sectional at Norwell, championship, 9 a.m.
FRESHMAN VOLLEYBALL: Bluffton, Southern Wells at Adams Central Tournament, 9 a.m.; Norwell Invitational, 9 a.m.
CROSS COUNTRY: Bluffton, Southern Wells at South Adams Invitational, noon; Norwell at Northeast Hoosier Conference meet at Bellmont, 9 a.m.
GIRLS SOCCER: Norwell at FW North Side (varsity only), 10 a.m.

Sports Round-Up by Paul Beitler

Huntington North, Adams Central
advance in tennis sectional
Huntington North and Adams Central advanced to the semifinals of the Norwell IHSAA boys’ tennis sectional.
Huntington North eliminated Bellmont 3-1 in the rain-shortened first round on Thursday.
Adams Central blanked South Adams 4-0.
Adams Central will play Bluffton in the semifinals, slated for today at 4:30 p.m. In the other match, defending sectional champion Norwell will face Huntington North at the same time. In case of rain, the semifinals will be played Saturday, followed by the championship match.

HUNTINGTON NORTH 3, BELLMONT 1
SINGLES: David Ballard (HN) def. Payton Selking (B) 6-1, 6-4; Michael Stidam (B) def. Chris Royer (HN) 6-4, 6-0; Phil Truitt (HN) def. Kodee McIntosh (B) 6-4, 6-0.
DOUBLES: Ian Kardatzke/Christian Webb (HN) def. Devin Amacker/Kyle Smith (B) 6-0, 6-2; Matt Stidam/Garrett McCord (B) vs. Adam Klaffke/Neal Hamilton (HN) rained out.

ADAMS CENTRAL 4, SOUTH ADAMS 0
SINGLES: Nathan Barger (AC) def. Alex Huber (SA) 6-2, 6-1; Kameron Fiechter (AC) def. Kegan Sprunger (SA) 6-1, 6-1; Jon Weil (AC) def. Mark Muselman (SA) 6-3, 6-0.
DOUBLES: Josh Smith/Austin Neadstine (AC) def. Chase Ingle/Jacob Smith (SA) 6-2, 6-0; Derek Schwartz/Ian Frank (SA) vs. Evan Timmons/Derek Roe (AC) rained out.

Norwell freshmen top East Noble
The Norwell Knights’ freshman football team defeated the East Noble Knights 18-7 Thursday night at the Courtyard.
Grahm Smith ran for 120 yards and two touchdowns and Tailur Szarenski rushed for 95 yards and one touchdown to lead Norwell (4-2, 3-1 Northeast Hoosier Conference).
Drew Rinkenberger led Norwell’s defense with 15 tackles and an interception. Cale Schumm added 10 tackles. Quinn Kumfer blocked a punt and Beau Burke recovered the ball. Blake Wyatt forced a fumble. Alex Mills and Max Morgan also played well.

Register for Future Lady Tigers
The Bluffton girls’ basketball program will be tipping off its Future Lady Tigers program Oct. 10 and running it every Saturday through Dec. 12 at Bluffton High School.
Bluffton-Harrison girls in grades 3-6 may register for $25, which includes a team jersey. Registration forms may be picked up and returned at Bluffton High School, Bluffton Middle School or Bluffton-Harrison Elementary offices or e-mail to head coach Vicki VanMatre at vvanmatre@bhmsd.k12.in.us. Deadline is Oct. 7. For more information, please call coach Van Matre at 824-3724, ext. 7304.

Future Tigers taking registrations
Registration forms for the Bluffton Future Tigers boys’ basketball program have been given to students in grades 3-6. The league will run from Oct. 17 to Dec. 19 at Bluffton-Harrison Elementary School. Cost is $25, which includes a player jersey. Registrations will be accepted beyond the Oct. 2 deadline. For more information, call 824-3724 to talk to Coach Kevin Leising.

Sign up for Squires League
The Norwell Squires Basketball League is taking registrations for any Northern Wells district girl or boy in grades 3-6. Cost is $60 for one child and $30 for each additional child from the same family. Entry deadline is Oct. 2. Forms may be picked up in the elementary school offices and sent to Randy Hawkins or Eric Thornton at Norwell High School, 1100E-US 224, Ossian, IN 4677. For more information, call 543-2213, ext. 7319 or 7233.

2nd Hoosier Outdoor Experience set for 2010

Indiana DNR Release:

Mark your calendars now to attend outdoor activity event Sept. 18-19

On the heels of a successful first-year effort, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and the Indiana Natural Resources Foundation have announced the second annual Hoosier Outdoor Experience will be Sept. 18-19, 2010 at Fort Harrison State Park, Indianapolis.

The inaugural “Experience” last weekend at Fort Harrison drew 13,300 attendees for the event, which included a one-day program for selected elementary school students followed by two days of free activities for the general public.

“It was a slam dunk,” DNR Director Robert E. Carter Jr. said. “Our first Hoosier Outdoor Experience did everything we expected it to do. We were able to introduce the DNR and its programs to thousands of new park visitors and at the same time introduce those people to a wide range of recreational opportunities.”

Unlike at traditional trade shows, visitors to the Hoosier Outdoor Experience were able to enjoy hands-on participation in nearly 50 outdoor activities. Some of the more popular events were trap shooting, archery, mountain biking, canoeing and kayaking, bow fishing, building wildlife boxes, and riding off-road vehicles.

“It was gratifying to see 18 months of planning finally play out, but even more rewarding to see the countless happy faces experiencing many of the weekend activities for the first time,” said Amanda Wuestefield, Hoosier Heritage Outdoor Coordinator and the lead organizer for the Experience. “We expect next year’s event to be even bigger.”
The Hoosier Outdoor Experience was presented by the Department of Natural Resources and the Indiana Natural Resources Foundation with support from the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust; Ball Brothers Foundation; WXIN-Fox 59, Indianapolis; and numerous other sponsors. Sponsorship information for the 2010 Hoosier Outdoor Experience can be obtained from Indiana Natural Resources Foundation executive director Bourke Patton; call (317) 234-5447 or e-mail bpatton@dnr.IN.gov.

Photo galleries from this year’s Hoosier Outdoor Experience are posted on Facebook at www.facebook.com/hoosieroutdoorexperience, and a multimedia slideshow of School Day can be viewed at www.IN.gov/dnr/5664.htm.